Leeds United have been dealt a blow in their pursuit of a Premier League attacker this month.
The Whites are primarily keen on strengthening their options at the back before the end of the window, but have also been linked with a couple of players who could bolster their front line.
It has been an extremely quiet January window so far and so Leeds’ patience regarding their top targets has certainly been tested, but there is one that can pretty much be ruled out.
Leeds had been among a number of Championship clubs interested in Bournemouth striker Kieffer Moore, who had reportedly been made available for transfer.
However, according to the Athletic, it is now ‘unlikely’ Bournemouth will sanction an exit for the ‘unplayable’ attacker, as they look to avoid leaving themselves short.
Leeds target Moore ‘unlikely’ to leave
Moore is yet to make a single start for Bournemouth in the Premier League this season and is keen to leave in order to secure regular game time elsewhere.
Leeds’ promotion rivals Ipswich Town are among the clubs who are said to have had a loan offer rejected by the Cherries, with Sunderland and Cardiff City also interested.
Moore is one of six Wales internationals who have been linked with a move to Leeds this month, with David Brooks, Connor Roberts, Chris Mepham, Neco Williams and Ben Davies having also too.
Thankfully for Leeds, though, a new striker isn’t really a pressing issue this month and so Bournemouth blocking his exit is arguably a boost if anything, as promotion rivals Ipswich will be unable to sign him.
Leeds currently have bigger priorities in terms of adding to their squad than striker, with both full-back positions, a creative attacker and a central defender if Charlie Cresswell leaves, more important.
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